Massage therapists can choose to work in either a health care or commercial setting.
Massage therapists administer massage as a method of lessening muscle discomfort, reducing stress and loosening up from exhaustion. Massage is performed by working the body’s soft tissue and muscles in an optimal sequence, to enhance blood flow and facilitate the removal of metabolic waste products.
Massage therapy is a popular method of relaxation for many people. There is a comprehensive assortment of relaxation procedures out there to fulfill various needs and scenarios. Massage therapy that focuses on boosting physical health, generally varies in method and length compared to massage that is designated to recreationally calm or revitalize individuals. There are numerous forms of massage and these therapeutic specialists are usually capable of implementing multiple techniques.
Massage therapists operate in a wide range of environments including wellness studios, medical centers, fitness facilities, sports medicine clinics, airports, shopping centers as well as client homes.
Salary, Job Outlook and Opportunities for Massage Therapists
Primarily dependent upon location, experience and employer, salary for massage therapists can range from $30,000 to over $60,000 according to Salary.com.
Employment of massage therapists is projected to improve by 20% over the following decade. As individuals become more aware of this method of therapy and health insurance companies progressively offer more coverage for this treatment, the need for these therapeutic specialists will certainly grow.
Due to the nature of massage therapy, opportunities for “moving up the ladder” can be minimal. That being said, those who are disciplined, structured and possess a sense of entrepreneurism have the ability to start their own business. Self-employed massage therapists with a sizable amount of steady clients typically earn the most income.
How To Become a Massage Therapist
The following is required before considering going to school for massage therapy. A high school diploma along with a firm enthusiasm in fitness and health care. Recommended characteristics include an outgoing and enjoyable personality, ability to adapt to different people/situations, and a sincere passion to help individuals.
Education
Massage therapy programs are offered at various colleges, universities and vocational schools and involve coursework in subjects such as anatomy & physiology, kinesiology, movement science, in addition to actual training in different massage techniques. These schools typically offer diploma (1-year or less) or associate’s degree (2-years or less) programs in massage therapy. Both full-time and part-time curricula may be available depending on the school.
Certification and License
Massage therapy programs may differ in accreditation. They usually are state authorized and may additionally be accredited by industry specific organizations such as the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB). With states that oversee the practice of massage therapy, graduation from an approved program is needed. Certain states necessitate massage professionals to maintain their competencies current by taking continuing education courses.
Massage Therapy Schools Near You
Experience the Rewards of Caring, With ECPI’s Medical Careers Institute, you can Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree in 2.5 Years or Your Associate’s Even Sooner through Our Year-Round Schedule!
Programs:
- Massage Therapy - Associate
- Physical Therapist Assisting - Associate
Programs:
- Relaxation Therapist
Programs:
- Therapeutic Massage
Programs:
Fortis Institute can give you the skills you need to train for a career in the healthcare field.
* Programs vary by location
* Please contact each individual campus for accreditation information
Programs:
- Massage Therapy
Prepare for a Career That You Will Love … in Massage Therapy!
Do you want a career that offers the satisfaction of helping people and a work environment that is positive and exciting? With the education you will receive at the Virginia School of Massage, that career can be yours.
Programs:
- Professional Massage Therapy Program
Kaplan University is focused on recognizing the achievements of military and veteran students and offers the flexibility of an online education. Eligible students can receive college credit for prior military experience and coursework—up to 75 percent of the credit needed for a Kaplan University undergraduate degree.*
Programs:
- AS in Health Science - Physical Therapy Assistant (Military Only)
- Military Physical Assistant Prerequisite Program
As a student at South University, you will have the opportunity to learn from accomplished faculty members who have real-world experience in the subjects that they teach. Our small class sizes allow you to receive personalized attention from instructors, and the encouragement to recognize your goals for the future and the means to achieve them.
Programs:
- Physical Therapist Assistant (AS)
Programs:
- Therapeutic Massage Technician
- Comprehensive Massage Therapist
Whether you’re seeking a career in massage therapy or adding massage therapy to your healthcare skillset, NMTI has options that may work for you.
Programs:
- Sports Massage and Muscle Performance Therapies Specialty
- Massage Therapy Program
- Pre-natal, Infant and Geriatric Therapies Specialty
